Learning to play the theremin is a unique and fascinating journey! Starting can indeed be challenging, but it's also incredibly rewarding. The theremin is one of the few instruments where you play it without physical contact, using hand movements to control pitch and volume.
Initially, managing pitch can feel quite difficult because there's no physical reference point—you’ll rely heavily on your ear to guide you. Developing this ear training is crucial, so regular practice is essential. A good starting tip is to place visual markers around the theremin to help guide your hand placements initially. This can help you start associating certain hand positions with specific pitches.
For volume control, the closer your hand is to the volume antenna, the softer the sound will be. Practicing with scales and simple melodies can help you get used to these nuances. It's not uncommon for thereminists to use a mirror when practicing, allowing them to see their hand positions and correct them if needed.
As for resources, there are some excellent video tutorials out there. Clara Rockmore is often cited as one of the most skilled theremin players, and watching her performances might offer inspiration and insight. Additionally, books like "Mastering the Theremin" by Lydia Kavina can provide structured learning strategies.
If you’re seriously considering pursuing the theremin, investing in a good-quality instrument like a Moog Theremini can make a big difference. These models often feature pitch correction capabilities, which can assist beginners in staying more in tune during practice sessions.
What aspect of learning the theremin excites you the most? It might also be helpful to connect with a community of theremin players who can offer ongoing support and answer more detailed questions as you progress.